The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has announced regulatory approval for Cirrus Aircraft's newest capability and innovation, Cirrus Known Ice Protection. Earlier this year, FAA approval was granted and new aircraft equipped with the optional system - both normally aspirated and TURBO piston aircraft - have been shipping to customers since January of 2009.
Pat Waddick, Cirrus Aircraft Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, noted the importance of flight into known icing capability to customers globally and the innovation in the design of the new Cirrus system. "Reliable, safe and efficient personal transportation is the hallmark of Cirrus Aircraft. Proper training and good decision-making are always essential for flight safety, and now with Cirrus Known Ice Protection, flying on marginal weather days or when icing forecasts might otherwise preclude travel are now possible. This robust system separates Cirrus Aircraft from others when it comes to getting the most capability for your personal aircraft investment."
The Cirrus Known Ice Protection system - allowing flight into known icing (FIKI) – utilizes the TKS™ weeping wing technology in laser-drilled panels on the leading edges of the wings, horizontal and vertical tail surfaces and the elevator horns. New high-intensity LED ice lights on both sides of the airplane illuminate the wing’s leading edges and tail surfaces through a unique prism lens. An automotive style nozzle distributes TKS fluid evenly onto the windshield and a traditional slinger-ring provides ice protection on the propeller. The pilot interface is equally as innovative as the Cirrus Known Ice Protection system seamlessly integrates with Cirrus Perspective by Garmin™ avionics on 12-inch screens by displaying key operating and system status information on the multi-function display (MFD) including protection system range and endurance. The TKS fluid capacity is up to a maximum of 8 gallons and various pilot selected flow rates allow de-icing fluid flow for up to 2.5 hours.
Ian Bentley, Vice President and Managing Director - International Sales commented, “This is likely the most extensively tested known ice protection package ever developed for general aviation. The certification program had the same icing envelope and followed similar testing protocols as business jets and airliners under FAR Part 25. Customers ordering new aircraft in 2009 have shown a very strong preference for the Cirrus Known Ice Protection option.” Bentley also added a word of caution, “As capable as the system is, Cirrus Known Ice Protection does not create an ‘all weather’ airplane – a perhaps overused term in aviation. Even airliners, military and corporate aircraft cancel flights for weather – particularly winter weather. A broad knowledge of weather operations, recurrent training and flight experience in your Cirrus is always necessary.”
Cirrus now offers additional support for pilots with an on-line “Icing Awareness” training program focused on the Cirrus Known Ice Protection equipped aircraft. This training is required for all Cirrus pilots prior to flying into forecast or known icing conditions and recommended for all pilots. Additionally, Cirrus will offer supplies of TKS fluid in volume (33 and 50-gallons) for purchase, shipped directly to you. Both the training program and TKS fluid are available for purchase at http://www.cirrusconnection.com/.